"At no time in the nation's recent history have the National Guard and Reserve forces contributed so much to the defense of our nation", said Bob Hollingsworth, ESGR executive director. "In support of the war on terrorism, and the ongoing operations in Iraq, an essential alliance has been formed with the Department of Defense as many of America's employers have become inextricably linked to the nation's defense by sharing their most precious asset: their employees."

"The 2004 Department of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award Recipients represent the highest level of corporate patriotism for their exceptional support of their employees who serve our nation in the Guard and Reserve", added Hollingsworth.

The award, a Waterford crystal eagle, was introduced in 1996 to publicly recognize the significant contributions and sacrifices made by America's employers of guardsmen and reservists. This year's recipients will be recognized in Washington Sept. 21.

(Based on a release from the National Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve.)